2021 Honda Odyssey vs 2020 Lincoln Navigator

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator stood out as a luxurious SUV, distinguished by its chrome accents and unique styling elements that set it apart from its Ford Expedition counterpart. The Lincoln Embrace lighting system, lattice-type grille, and illuminated star logo added to its premium appeal. Inside, the Navigator offered a mid-century modern design with high-quality materials, a panoramic glass roof, and advanced digital instrumentation. The 30-way Perfect Position front seats, part of the Luxury Package, provided exceptional comfort with heating, ventilation, and massaging functions, making the Navigator a true flagship SUV.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda Odyssey maintained a familiar look with subtle updates to modernize its appearance. The new grille, front bumper, and LED headlights with automatic high-beam operation refreshed its design. The Odyssey offered four trim levels, with the Touring trim featuring new 19-inch wheels and a more luxurious interior. The perforated leather upholstery and ambient lighting in the Touring trim elevated its upscale feel. Despite its decade-old styling theme, the Odyssey's updates brought it closer to being the Acura of minivans.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a robust twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering an impressive 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. This engine outperformed the Ford Expedition's most powerful version by 50 horsepower and 30 lb-ft of torque. The Navigator's 10-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive system provided smooth power delivery, with multiple drive modes to suit various driving conditions. Its towing capacity reached 3,764 kilograms, aided by the Pro Trailer Backup Assist system. However, fuel efficiency was a concern, with an average of 14.3 litres per 100 kilometres during testing. Despite its size, the Navigator offered excellent body motion control and maneuverability in tight spaces.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, producing 280 horsepower. The front-wheel-drive Odyssey lacked all-wheel drive, which was a disadvantage in snowy conditions. The engine's variable cylinder management improved fuel efficiency, with an average of 10.8 litres per 100 kilometres during testing. The Odyssey's ride and handling were enjoyable, with well-weighted steering and firm yet comfortable suspension. However, the brakes struggled under heavy use, especially during a heatwave. The Odyssey's performance was solid, but it lacked the power and towing capabilities of the Navigator.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator offered a spacious and comfortable interior, with power running boards for easier access. The 30-way Perfect Position front seats provided exceptional comfort, while the second-row captain's chairs and third-row seats ensured ample space for passengers. The Navigator's cargo capacity was class-leading, with up to 3,407 litres of space in the long-wheelbase model. The Navigator excelled in passenger comfort and cargo space, making it a top choice for luxury SUV buyers.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey provided a practical and versatile interior, with logical controls and ample storage. The Magic Slide second-row seats allowed for various seating configurations, while the third-row seats accommodated both children and adults comfortably. Cargo space was generous, with up to 3,984 litres of maximum volume. However, removing the second-row seats for maximum cargo space was cumbersome. The Odyssey's interior was well-designed for family use, but it lacked the luxury and space of the Navigator.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator's Sync 3 infotainment system was its weakest point, with slow loading times. However, it offered Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. The Luxury Package included a 20-speaker Revel Ultima audio system, providing an excellent listening experience. Additional features included a surround-view camera system and a head-up display. Despite its shortcomings, the Navigator's technology package was comprehensive.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. The Touring trim added a navigation system, CabinWatch interior camera, and CabinTalk PA system. The rear-seat entertainment system included a 10.2-inch screen and Blu-Ray player. However, the lack of a tuning knob and subpar voice recognition were drawbacks. The Odyssey's technology offerings were family-friendly, but not as advanced as the Navigator's.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator came equipped with the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Navigator received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, but the IIHS had not tested the 2020 model. The Navigator's safety features were comprehensive and effective.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey improved its safety features with the standard Honda Sensing suite, which included adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey earned top safety ratings from the NHTSA and was expected to receive a Top Safety Pick recommendation from the IIHS. The Odyssey's safety features were impressive, but not as refined as the Navigator's.